APM Terminals invests USD 115M to boost Nigeria’s trade hub

NIGERIA – APM Terminals has announced a major USD 115 million investment at the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) in Onne, Nigeria, aimed at enhancing the port’s capacity and operational efficiency.

The upgrade includes several improvements designed to support Nigeria’s position as a key trade hub in West Africa.

Among the highlights are yard expansion, the acquisition of advanced cargo-handling equipment, and the construction of a modern office complex. This is expected to drastically improve service delivery at the terminal.

“New Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHC), Rubber Tyred Gantries (RTG), and advanced Cargo Handling Equipment (CHE) will significantly reduce turnaround time,” the company announced in an official release.

These improvements will streamline operations at the quay, yard, and gate, lifting service standards across the board.

Kashim Shettima, Vice President of Nigeria, welcomed the investment as a clear signal of APM Terminals’ long-term commitment to supporting the country’s economy.

“Nigeria is a country of significant opportunities,” Shettima said. “This investment underscores the company’s strong commitment to developing ports that are a lifeline to global trade. We will continue collaborating with APM Terminals to create an environment where businesses participating in global trade can thrive.”

The project at WACT also includes an innovative auto gate system and a state-of-the-art data center, which are expected to further improve operational efficiency. Additionally, self-service kiosks have been upgraded to enhance customer experience.

Driving trade in fresh produce

The strategic location of the terminal plays a crucial role in supporting exports from Nigeria, particularly in the fresh produce sector.

Positioned at the port of Onne, WACT serves as a key gateway for goods exported from Eastern Nigeria.

The terminal has also commissioned a new Container Freight Station (CFS) to handle agricultural products more effectively, reducing time and costs for exporters.

Olaf Gelhausen, Chief Operating Officer of APM Terminals, emphasized the importance of this investment in driving economic growth.

“This USD 115 million investment is a bold statement of our faith in Nigeria’s economic potential,” he said. “We are proud to be catalysts in this transformation, raising standards and driving prosperity across West Africa.”

In addition to the current upgrade, APM Terminals has plans to invest an additional USD 500 million in Nigeria, further cementing its role in supporting the country’s non-oil exports, including fresh produce.

This aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic diversification goals, as the country continues to focus on growing its agricultural sector and increasing foreign exchange earnings.

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